Safety of some Maui roads uncertain

WAILUKU » Maui County officials are warning the public to avoid using rural roads near Kahakuloa in West Maui and near Kaupo in East Maui, in light of Sunday's earthquake and yesterday's heavy rain on the Valley Isle.

County spokeswoman Ellen Pelissero said yesterday that officials are worried about the structural integrity of the bridges and roads between Waihee and Kapalua and between Ulupalakua and Hana.

Pelissero said public works officials have not had time to check the condition of the roads and bridges in those two areas. She said officials will be unable to conduct the inspection until the rains subside, and they do not know to what extent the rain might compromise the roads and bridges.

Pelissero said travel to areas of Kaupo and Kahakuloa has been limited to local traffic.